Breckenridge reconsiders fire rule on tree removal

BRECKENRIDGE (AP) – Following opposition from residents, the Breckenridge Town Council voted this week to repeal a defensible-space ordinance designed to protect homes from wildfires.

An ordinance approved in June required residents to cut trees and other vegetation within specific boundaries near their homes. Fire officials inspected properties to determine which trees to remove. The council voted unanimously Tuesday to repeal the measure.

The repeal will be up for a final vote Aug. 11, along with a new version of the ordinance that would be voluntary.

Some residents complained that estimates for removing trees to comply with the old ordinance reached $1,200 or more.